Interactive toys

ABSTRACT

A plurality of individual toys, at least a first one of which generates acoustic signals and at least a second one of which receives acoustic signals. When the second toy receives acoustic signals from the first toy, it responds, for example, by generating a sound and/or controlling its motion. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the toys flock and/or form a procession of toys which follow a leader toy, for example a mother goose and a plurality of following and preferably quacking goslings.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.13/295,119 filed on Nov. 14, 2011, which is a division of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 12/496,669 filed on Jul. 2, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No.8,062,090, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/787,265 filed on Mar. 14, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,568,963, which isa U.S. National Phase of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/IL99/00506 filedon Sep. 16, 1999, which claims priority from Israel Patent ApplicationNos. 127569 filed on Dec. 14, 1998, 127072 filed on Nov. 16, 1998 and126444 filed on Oct. 2, 1998. PCT Patent Application No. PCT/IL99/00506is also a continuation of PCT Patent Application No. PCT/IL98/00450filed on Sep. 16, 1998.

The contents of all of the above applications are incorporated byreference as if fully set forth herein.

FIELD OF INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to toys and/or other devicesthat interact among themselves, especially using acoustic transmissions.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,191,615 and 4,840,602 describe toys that respond tosignals transmitted from a different location. In one example, thesignals are RF signals. In another example the signals are encoded lightmodulations which are carried as part of a TV transmission or as part ofa video recording. The disclosures of all the patents and publicationsmentioned herein are incorporated herein by reference.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,752,880 and a corresponding PCT publication describetoys having a two way communication link with a computer. This link maybe used to provide instructions and also to download programming to thetoy.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,655,945 describes a set of one or more toys that arecontrolled by a RF signal transmission. The signal is decoded from avertical blank period signal of a children's movies and the actions ofone or more toys (sounds, motion), are synchronized with the movie usingthe transmission.

Outside of the toy-field, mechanical models of populations of animalshave been constructed. In a particular example, a population ofmechanical toads has been constructed to analyze and display theinteractive behavior of such animals, for example setting of croakingsound levels.

However, a child often plays with a plurality of toys and simulatesinteraction between them.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One object of some preferred embodiments of the invention is to providetoys which interact directly with each other, preferably enhancing thepleasure of a child playing with the toys. In a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, the toys comprise action figures, animal figures and/ordolls. Preferably, there is a conceptual relationship between theinteracting toys, for example “mother and baby” or “horse and rider”,however, this is not required in all the preferred embodiments of theinvention.

One aspect of some preferred embodiments of the present invention isrelated to toys which purposely transmit and receive signals betweenthem. The signals may be part of a complex interaction involving manyrelated signals, for example, confirmations, queries and replies.Alternatively or additionally, the signals may be simple two-partcommunications, for example toy “A” tells toy “B” to jump and inresponse toy “B” jumps and/or squeaks. Two types of signals which can betransmitted between toys should be differentiated. A first type ofsignal directs the behavior of one toy by another. A second type ofsignal is one which is passed through the toy, for example in toywalki-talkies. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the signalsare transmitted directly between the toys. Alternatively oradditionally, the toys are connected to a communications network. Thenetwork may have a star topology, for example, with at least some of thetoys transmitting signals through a hub (e.g., a computer, especially apersonal computer or a PDA). Alternatively or additionally, the topologymay allow toys to forward signals from one toy to the next. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, a signal generated by a toy isintended for a destination toy and may include an indication of thatdestination toy. Alternatively or additionally, the signals may bemulti-cast. Alternatively or additionally, each toy may choose whichsignals to detect and/or respond to.

An aspect of some preferred embodiments of the invention relates tocommunication between toys using sounds. Alternatively or additionallyto communications using RF; magnetic fields; variable signaling,preferably, low frequency, visible signaling such as by movingappendages; IR; and visible light, toys may communicate using acoustics.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sounds used forcommunications are incorporated in sounds used for play. In one example,one toy generates vocal output towards another toy (talking) and theother toy responds to the vocal output. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the incorporation is by recognition of the characteristics ofthe play sound. Alternatively or additionally, the signal is overlaid onthe sound as a modulation or appended to it, for example as a beep.Alternatively or additionally, the sounds are inaudible, for examplebeing ultrasonic or infrasonic. Alternatively or additionally, thesounds are inadvertently created when the toy acts, for example, astomping sound caused by the walking of a first toy may be detected by asecond toy, as a signal to respond to.

An aspect of some preferred embodiment of the invention relates to setsof toys that are designed to respond to each other. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the set includes two, three four or evenover ten individual toys. In one example, such a set may include amother goose and three goslings. When the mother goose quacks and startswalking, the goslings can also quack and start walking after the mothergoose. In another example, the set includes a plurality of toy soldiers.Preferably, the soldiers are divided into two groups. Within each groupthe toys preferably act as a unit, e.g., advance in a synchronizedmanner. When a soldier from one unit “fires” at a soldier from a secondunit, the second soldier preferably responds by shouting out and fallingand/or becoming inactive. Soldier units, action figures and other toys,especially those emulating human or living creatures, typically, but notnecessarily include segments which can be moved by the player, forexample arms, legs and weapons.

An aspect of some preferred embodiments of the invention relates toallowing and generating un-predicted and/or complex interactions betweentoys. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each toy receives,transmits and/or responds to signals using a relatively simple logic.However, since there are many toys, with many possible relativepositions, relatively simple logic rules may exhibit seemingly complexbehavior patterns. In the animal world, such behavior is exhibited byants, where each ant is relatively simple, but the anthill as a wholeexhibits very complex behavior.

An aspect of some preferred embodiments of the invention relates tofacilitating interaction between remote players, via interacting toys.In one example, if a first player is playing with two toys “A” and “B”,and toy “A” talks to toy “B”, a vocal response for toy “B” may begenerated by a second player. In the example of the soldiers describedabove, one unit of soldiers may be controlled from a remote location,such as another room, possibly using a second player. The control may beexercised by the second player using a computer. Additionally oralternatively, the second player may interact with his toys and thisinteraction and/or its results being transmitted to the unit ofsoldiers. In one example, the transmission uses an Internet connection,so that the two players can even be on opposite sides of the world.

An aspect of some preferred embodiments of the invention relates tosimple and relatively cheap interactive toys. In a preferred embodimentof the invention, the toys are controlled using a simplemicro-controller and communicate using acoustic waves. Suchcommunication is generally significantly cheaper than RF or IRcommunications. Additionally, such communication does not require ameditating computer, in accordance with some preferred embodiments ofthe invention, so that software and/or hardware installation on acomputer is not required. Even when RF communication is used, shortrange and/or low frequency radiation is preferably used, to reduceradiation danger, however, this is not essential.

An aspect of some preferred embodiments of the invention relates tointerfacing a toy and/or other device with a computer system withoutinstalling hardware on the computer. In one example, using a computerhaving installed thereon a sound card with a microphone and/orloudspeakers, the loudspeakers are used to interrogate an identificationdevice, using ultrasound. In another example, such interrogation is usedto determine distance from and/or location of a toy. Preferably, thecomputer's microphone is used to detect a response from the interrogateddevice. In some embodiments, especially for toys, the interrogation maycomprise audible sounds.

There is thus provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a toy kit comprising:

a first toy having a first function, which toy generates acousticsignals; and

at least one second toy having a second function different from saidfirst function, which second toy receives the acoustic signals andutilizes the signals to perform said second function. Preferably, saidacoustic signals are audible. Alternatively, said acoustic signals areultrasonic.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said toys are child-safe.Alternatively or additionally, said toys are toddler-safe. Alternativelyor additionally, said toys are baby-safe.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said acoustic signals areindirectly generated by motion of at least a part of said first toy.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said toys have externalforms matching said functions. Alternatively or additionally, said toysare operative to move in a manner matching said functions. Alternativelyor additionally, said toys are operative to generate sounds in a mannermatching said functions.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said first functioncomprises a leader function, and wherein said second function comprisesa following function, which function exhibits locomotion which followslocomotion of said first toy. Alternatively or additionally, said firstfunction comprises a mother-emulating function and wherein said secondfunction comprises a child-emulating function. Alternatively, saidfunctions comprise different toy-soldier functions. Alternatively, saidfunctions comprise emulations of different farm-animals.

Alternatively or additionally, said first function comprises anemulation of a sheep-dog and wherein said second function comprises anemulation of a sheep.

In an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention, neither of saidfirst and second functions designates one toy as a hierarchical superiorof the other toy.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each of such functionscomprises an emulation of a speaker in an interactive conversationbetween figures represented by the two toys.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said second functionexhibits a response to an exhibition of said first function. Preferably,said response comprises a generation or modulation of locomotion of saidsecond toy. Preferably, said locomotion is directed towards said firsttoy. Alternatively, said locomotion is directed away from said firsttoy. Alternatively or additionally, said response comprises a modulationor generation of sound by said second toy. Alternatively oradditionally, said response comprises a modulation or generation oflight by said second toy. Alternatively or additionally, said responsecomprises a generation or modulation of motion of a segment of saidsecond toy. Alternatively or additionally, said response is dependent ona relative position of said toys. Preferably, said distance isdetermined by said second toy analyzing said acoustic signals.

Alternatively or additionally, said response is dependent on a relativeorientation of at least one of said toys relative to the other one.Preferably, said orientation is determined by said second toy analyzingsaid acoustic signals.

Alternatively or additionally, said response is dependent on afunctional state of at least one of said toys. Preferably, said responseis dependent on a functional state of the first toy. Alternatively oradditionally, said response is dependent on a functional state of thesecond toy. Alternatively or additionally, said functional statecomprises motion. Alternatively or additionally, said functional stateis determined by said second toy analyzing said acoustic signals.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said at least a second toycomprises at least two interacting child-safe toys. Alternatively oradditionally, said at least a second toy comprises at least fourinteracting child-safe toys. Alternatively or additionally, said atleast a second toy comprises at least seven interacting child safe toys.Alternatively or additionally, said at least a second toy comprises atleast ten interacting child-safe toys.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said interacting toysinteract in a linear network-configuration, each toy interacting with aprevious toy in said network.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a toy kit comprising:

a first child-safe toy which generates ultrasonic signals; and

at least a second child-safe toy which receives the signals and exhibita behavior, responsive to said signals. Preferably, said behavior isexhibited responsive to a content encoded in said signals. Alternativelyor additionally, said behavior is exhibited responsive to an existenceof said signals.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a toy kit comprising:

a first child-safe toy which indirectly generates acoustic signals, bymotion of at least parts thereof; and

at least a second child-safe toy which receives the signals and utilizesthe signals to exhibit a behavior, responsive to said signals.Preferably, said indirect acoustic signals are generated by a rattleattached to said first toy. Alternatively or additionally, said indirectacoustic signals are generated by a contact or a portion of said firsttoy with a ground surface which supports said first toy.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said behavior compriseslocomotion of said second toy. Alternatively or additionally, said firsttoy further responds to said exhibited behavior of said second toy.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a toy kit comprising:

a first child-safe toy which generates signals and exhibits a firstbehavior; and

at least one second child-safe toy which receives the signals exhibits asecond behavior, responsive to said first behavior, using said signalsto determine said second behavior to exhibit. Preferably, said secondtoy transmits additional signals to said first toy, which said first toyexhibit a third behavior responsive to said second behavior, said firsttoy using said additional signals to determine which third behavior toexhibit. Alternatively or additionally, said second behavior comprisesmovement of the toy. Alternatively or additionally, said second behaviorcomprises generating sounds.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said second toy receivessaid signals directly from said first toy. Alternatively oradditionally, said second toy receives said signals via an intermediatedevice. Preferably, said intermediate device comprises a third toy.Alternatively, said intermediate device comprises a computer.Alternatively, said intermediate device comprises at least two computersconnected by a network.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said first and second toysare operative to operate when separated by at least 2 meters.Alternatively or additionally, said first and second toys are operativeto operate when separated by at least 5 meters. Alternatively oradditionally, said first and second toys are operative to operate whenseparated by at least 100 meters.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said signals compriseacoustic signals. Preferably, said signals comprise ultrasonic signals.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said signals comprise anoverlay on toy-play related sounds.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said signals compriseencoded signals. Alternatively or additionally, said signals aredigitally encoded. Alternatively or additionally, said signals compriseelectromagnetic signals. Preferably, said signals comprise RF signals.Alternatively or additionally, said signals comprise light signals.Preferably, said signals comprise visible light signals.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said at least one secondchild-safe toy comprises at least four child-safe toys. Preferably, saidat least four toys exhibit interacting behavior.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said first toy is coveredwith a soft fur. Alternatively or additionally, said first toy comprisesan action figure.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a method of playing, comprising:

first interacting, by a player, with a first toy at a first location;and

exhibiting of behavior of a second toy at a second, remote, location,responsive to said first interaction. Preferably, the method comprises:

second interacting, with a second player, with the second toy at thesecond location, responsive to said behavior. Alternatively oradditionally, said first and second toys communicate via a computernetwork. Preferably, said computer network comprises an Internet.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, wherein said second toyrepresents said first toy at said second location and wherein saidsecond interacting comprises interacting with a third toy, which thirdtoy interacts with said second toy locally, an indication of whichinteraction is transmitted to said first location, whereby said thirdtoy effectively interacts with said first toy.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, an indication of said firstinteraction is exhibited by a computer at said second location, and saidsecond toy interacts with said computer.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a method of interacting between a computer and a toy,comprising:

transmitting sounds from a computer to a toy; and

exhibiting behavior by said toy responsive to said transmission.Preferably, said sounds encode a behavioral program for said toy.Alternatively or additionally, said sounds comprise a real-time signalto which said toy responds. Alternatively or additionally, said soundsare synchronized with a display on said computer screen.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the method comprisestransmitting second sounds from said toy back to said computer,responsive to said sounds. Alternatively or additionally, said secondsounds comprises an indication of results of play, by a player, with thetoy.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said toy comprises aplurality of toys whose behavior is synchronized by said soundtransmission.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sounds compriseultrasonic signals.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a method of interacting between a computer and a toy,comprising:

transmitting sounds from a toy to a computer; and

exhibiting behavior by said computer responsive to said transmission.Preferably, said toy comprises a play implement. Preferably, saidimplement comprises a game controller. Alternatively, said implementcomprises a bat. Alternatively, said implement comprises a glove.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sounds control, inreal-time, at least one object on a display of said computer.Preferably, said at least one object is an element in a game programbeing executed on said computer.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sounds are soundsindirectly generated by the toy in association with usage thereof.Preferably, said indirect sounds comprise ground-hitting sounds.Alternatively or additionally, said indirect sounds comprisemotion-related sounds. Alternatively or additionally, said indirectsounds comprise object collision sounds.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sounds encodeinformation. Preferably, said sounds digitally encode information.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sounds compriseultrasonic sounds. Preferably, said ultrasonic sounds are processedusing a music-oriented sound card of said computer. Alternatively oradditionally, said sounds are detected using a standard audio-frequencymicrophone of said computer. Alternatively or additionally, the methodcomprises generating additional ultrasonic sounds by said computer,using an audio-frequency speaker of said computer, responsive to saidsounds.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said sounds are processed bysaid computer to determine at least one relative spatial property ofsaid computer and said toy. Alternatively or additionally, said soundsare processed by said toy to determine at least one relative spatialproperty of said computer and said toy.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said spatial propertycomprises a relative distance. Alternatively or additionally, saidspatial property comprises a relative position. Alternatively oradditionally, said spatial property comprises a relative orientation.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a method of communicating between a computer and a toy,comprising:

generating an RF signal using a speaker of said computer; and

detecting said RF signal by a child-safe toy. Preferably, the methodcomprises processing said signal to determine a relative spatialproperty of said toy and said speaker.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a toy comprising of:

a toy portion;

a microphone; and

a signal responding portion comprising essentially of:

-   -   a power source; and    -   an integrated circuit which receives signals from said        microphone and controls said toy portion to respond thereto.        Preferably, the toy comprises:

an interfacing circuit between said microphone and said integratedcircuit; and

an interfacing circuit between said integrated circuit toy portion.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said integrated circuitreceives said signals, in analog form into a digital port thereof.

There is also provided in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention, a toy network comprising:

a central station at a first location, which generates a transmission;and

a plurality of toys at a plurality of second locations, which receivesaid transmission. Preferably, said toys generate a human-noticeableindication when receiving said transmission. Alternatively oradditionally, said toys receive said transmission via an interveningcomputer. Alternatively or additionally, said toys receive saidtransmission via a radio broadcast. Preferably, said radio broadcastcomprises a DAB (Digital Audio Broadcast).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a same transmission istransmitted to all of said toys. Alternatively, different transmissionsare transmitted to different ones of said toys.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said toys transmit feedback,responsive to an interaction with them by a user, to said centralstation. Preferably, a same transport method is used for bothtransmission directions between said toy and said central station.Alternatively, a different transport method is used for differenttransmission directions between said toy and said central station.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, said toy comprises a quizdisplaying toy and wherein said transmission comprises quiz questions oranswers to quiz questions. Alternatively or additionally, said toyanalyses said transmission to generate an indication to a user of saidtoy, which indication is responsive an interaction by said user withsaid toy.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention will be more clearly understood with reference to thefollowing detailed descriptions of non-limiting preferred embodiments ofthe invention in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of two interacting toys, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a mother goose and goslings toykit, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an individual interactive toyfigure, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4A is a schematic block diagram illustrating two interactive toys,wherein one of the toys is at least partially controlled from a remotelocation;

FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a soldier toy kit comprising twounits of soldiers, a tank and an optional command console, in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a network configuration for toyinterconnection, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of a communications tap for acomputer, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention;and

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a toy network utilizing a centralbroadcasting station, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram of two interacting toys, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. A toy 20generates a signal which is detected by a toy 22. Toy 22 generates aresponse 26, back to toy 20. Toy 20 may then generate a further signal,in response to detecting or not detecting response 26. Additionally oralternatively, toy 22 generates a response 28 which is not directedtowards toy 20. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each of toys20 and 22 comprise individual toys, for example, action figures, dolls,plastic animals (optionally coated with a soft fur) and/or toy soldiers.In some preferred embodiments of the invention, the individual toys maybe physically coupled together, for example, a plurality of actionfigures are all coupled to a base plate. Preferably, the toys areconstructed to be child-toddler or baby safe. These designations relateto features of construction which allow these toys to be packaged forsale to various ages of children, with reasonable expectation that thetoy will not damage the child. Also, such toys may be required towithstand certain environments, such as drooling and being slept on.Typically in such toys, but not necessarily, electronic and logicportions and compartmentalized deep inside the toy, so that they willnot be inadvertently (from a parent's point of view) interfered with. Itshould be noted that the art of designing and constructing toys to bechild safe at various safety levels is a well developed art and may beapplied to various embodiments as described herein.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, signal 24 comprises anacoustic signal. Such a signal may be audible or inaudible, for examplebeing ultrasonic or infrasonic. Additionally or alternatively, thesignals may comprise IR, RF, low frequency magnetic fields and/orelectrostatic fields. Additionally or alternatively, signal 24 may be apassive signal and/or response to a probe by toy 22, for example an RFprobe wave, which is responded to by a frequency doubling.

PCT application PCT/IL98/00450, titled “The Control of Toys and Devicesby Sounds”, filed Sep. 16, 1998, in the Israeli receiving office, thedisclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference, describes soundactuated toys. In particular, the application describes various soundmakers which generate sounds inadvertently as a result of motion, forexample beads in a box or crinkle material. In a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, such a sound maker is connected to and/or mounted on toy20, so that when toy 20 moves a signal will be generated for toy 22.This PCT application also describes detecting the direction and/orposition of a sound, using directional microphones and/or a stereophonicmicrophone including two or more microphone elements. Additionally oralternatively, a relative distance is determined based on an amplitudeof the sound.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the sounds (or othersignals) are automatically generated by toy 20, for example on a random-or a periodic-basis. Additionally or alternatively, the sounds may becaused by a player, for example by a player activating toy 20.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, toy 20 comprises a “mamadoll” and toy 22 comprises a “baby doll”. In a conventional scenario, achild will hold one doll in each hand and generate pretend conversationbetween them. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each dollgenerates conversation sentences in response to conversation sentencesuttered by the other doll. The conversation may be initiated by pressinga button on one doll, by their proximity and/or by them being orientedto face each other. In a preferred embodiment of the invention,proximity is detected if one or both toys include a magnetic fieldgenerator, such as a magnet, and the other toy includes a switch whichis activated by a change in magnetic field. Additionally oralternatively, proximity is detected by a metal part of one toyaffecting a resonance circuit in the other toy.

Signal 24 is not limited to acoustic signal. In a preferred embodimentof the invention, the signal (and/or the responses) may comprise controlof acoustic signal amplitude and/or frequency, motion, rotation and/ormodification of motion and/or rotation of the toy, its appendages orother parts thereof and/or control of illumination, such as blinking oflights.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a simple signal-responselogic is sufficient, for example a mother cow toy moos and a toy calfdoll moves towards the mother. However, in some preferred embodiments ofthe invention, a more complex logic is provided. Such logic may includeone or more of, differentiation between different signals, multipleresponse, different operations modes and/or states, possibly switchedbetween based on received signals, time duration and response times,detection of responses to a signal, detection of various characteristicsof the environment, including number of participating toys and/orabsolute and/or relative position and/or orientation and/or distancebetween the toys.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the response is timelimited, for example a motion in response to a signal may be limited to5 seconds and/or to a duration depending on the signal.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the logic is implemented bycircuits in the toys. Additionally or alternatively, the toys eachinclude a transmitter and/or a receiver and the logic is at leastpartially if not fully implemented on a computer which communicates withthe toys. Alternatively or additionally, other computation requirementsof the toys, for example speech signal generation and/or displaygeneration may be performed at the computer and transmitted to a toy fordisplay (visual or acoustic).

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the detection of a signal bya toy comprises a binary detection of the signal, e.g., an on/off state.Additionally or alternatively, more complex signal detection may beimplemented, for example, detection of signal amplitude, frequency,frequency spectrum, Doppler shift, change in amplitude and/or duration,detection of a number of repetitions, voice and/or other patternrecognition in the sound, detecting patters of motion, for examplegestures and/or detection of codes, for example in a flashing lightsource. Thus, the transmitted signal may include information about thesending toy's activities, location, environment, nearby toys, locallysensed information, logic state and/or readiness.

Such signal detection and/or analysis may also be performed on acomputer which is in communication with the toys. The physical detectioncircuit is preferably located on the toy. Additionally or alternatively,the detection circuit is also located on the computer.

FIG. 2 is a schematic illustration of a mother goose and goslings toykit, which includes a goose 30 and a plurality of goslings 32, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, goose 30 includes a signal generator, forexample a sound generator 34. The sound generator may be activatedrandomly, when activated by a player and/or as a result of goose 30moving or being squeezed. In a preferred embodiment of the invention,generator 34 is integrated into the legs of the goose so that a“stomping” sound is generated when the goose makes a step. Additionallyor alternatively, the sound may be a periodic and/or random “quacking”sound. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each of goslings 32includes a sound detector 36. Preferably, the sound detector detects thesound (or other signal) generated by the goose and causes gosling 32 torespond. One possible response is a “quack”. Additionally oralternatively, the gosling moves towards the mother goose. Preferably,each gosling includes a sound generator 38, for other goslings tofollow. Additionally or alternatively, all the goslings follow themother goose.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, sound detector 36 comprisesa directional microphone, for example a stereophonic microphone or amicrophone in which the frequency response is spatially non-uniform. Ina preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of microphones areprovided on each toy, so that holding the toy will be unlikely to coverall the microphones and deafen the toy. Additionally or alternatively,the microphones are located in hard-to-obstruct locations.

In an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention, the toyscomprise puppy dolls, possibly with a mother puppy. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, when one puppy detects that a child isnear, for example based on a crinkling bracelet worn by the child, thepuppy signals to all the other puppies, for example by barking, and theother puppies approach the child, escape from it, start running incircles and/or otherwise respond to the child.

FIG. 3 is a schematic block diagram of an individual interactive toyFIG. 40, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention. Toy40 preferably includes a receiver 42 which receives a signal fromanother toy. The signal is preferably analyzed by an analyzer 44, todecide on desired responses. An actuator 48 may be used to control oneor more motors 46 and/or to send a signal via a transmitter 50.Additionally or alternatively, an acoustic and/or optical response maybe generated. Additionally or alternatively, a message may be displayedon a screen which forms part of toy 40.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, analyzer 44 and actuator 44are embodied as a micro-controller. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, receiver 42 and transmitter 50 are embedded as piezoelectricacoustic elements, possibly as a single element. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the output of receiver 42 is amplified toTTL levels and connected directly into one or more data lines of themicro-controller, for analysis. Thus, a high acoustic frequency can bedetected and/or analyzed, without requiring an A/D. Preferably, thesignal is amplified by various amounts, such as multiples of two of eachother and connected in parallel to a plurality of data legs, so thatmulti-level signal detection is facilitated.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a toy kit includes a “dog”figure and a plurality of “sheep” figures. The dog figure moves in thedirection of the sheep figures and causes the sheep figures to huddle upand/or move in a particular direction. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the dog figure includes a memory so that it can trackpositions from which it “barked” at the sheep figures and/or to storethe locations of a plurality of sheep. Preferably, the dog and/or thesheep include a position detection circuit, for example, by detecting asignal transmitted by a base station, for example incorporated in abarn. Additionally or alternatively, the dog includes a relative motionsensor, for calculating its current position, for example based onmotion of wheels of the dog.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of “ant” figuresare provided. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the antsinclude a proximity detector, so that they can exhibit differentbehavior if they are near each other or if they are far away from eachother, for example whether or not to follow other ants. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the proximity detection is based onmagnetic fields, for example DC magnetic fields or low frequency and/orpulsed magnetic fields. Such fields are generated by a rotating magnet,in accordance with some preferred embodiments of the invention.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, individual toys may beprogrammed to specifically respond and/or interact with other specifictoys. Additionally or alternatively, the toys may be programmed so thatthere is an order between the toys, at least an indication of a “leader”toy. In one example, each toy transmits and/or receives at a differentfrequency band. Additionally or alternatively, each toy transmits and/orreceives at a different time delay after detecting a sound. Thus forexample in the mother goose embodiment, each gosling may quack back at adifferent delay after the mother goose quacks. Each gosling may also beprogrammed to follow a gosling which quacks at a particular delay afterthe mother goose (e.g., no delay if it is the lead gosling).

FIG. 4A is a schematic block diagram illustrating two interactive toys,a toy 60 and a toy 62, where one or more toys 62 are at least partiallycontrolled from a remote controller 64. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, controller 64 directly controls a signal generated by toy 62and/or its response to a signal generated by toy 60. Additionally oralternatively, the control may be more subtle, for example, changing amode of operation of toy 62. Additionally or alternatively, control maybe exerted by controller 64 directly generating a signal to toy 60and/or directly generating a response to a signal from toy 60.

Several dimensions of control are preferably differentiated by all orpart of the following analysis:

(a) Is the controller a human, a computer, or a predetermined sequence,such as a tape recording?

(b) Is the control over all aspects/controllable features of the toy oronly over some aspects, possibly a single one?

(c) How do the type, extent, amount and/or other characteristics of thecontrol vary over time and/or as a function of interaction between thetoys, where such characteristics may vary or remain constant?

(d) Is the control form a nearby location, a line of sight location, anext room or possibly a different city or country?

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, toy 62 includes a remotecontrol, for example a radio remote control. Additionally oralternatively, toy 62 responds to commands from a computer and/ortransmissions responsive to a broadcast or a recorded tape. Additionallyor alternatively, toy 62 is activated by a player's voice and/ormovements.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the signals transmitted fromtoy 62 to toy 60 comprises a command from controller 64.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a human player controls toy62 using a signal generator attached to the player. Such a generator maycomprise a bracelet which crinkles. Additionally or alternatively, thegenerator may comprise a magnetic bracelet. In a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, toy 62 can detect the relative position and/ororientation of the bracelet and/or motions thereof. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, such detected locations and/or orientationsmay be used to control an interactive computer game, such as boxing,baseball or golf, whereby hand motions of a computer character arecontrolled by the motion of the bracelet, a glove and/or a sound maker(passive and/or battery operated) mounted on a play implement such as abat, a club, a steering wheel, a joystick, a sword or a gun.Alternatively or additionally, the motion of the play implement are usedto model the motion of a virtual play implement in the game, such as abat. The motion which is responded to may include, position, motionvector and/or acceleration, in one, two or three dimensions. Five- (orhigher) degrees of freedom sensing may require more than one transmitteror receiver on the play implement.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the acoustic transducer onthe bat (or other play implement) comprises a bendable piezoelectricfilm, which is bent around the bat, so that the transmission and/orreception is less limited by the orientation of the bat.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, an action figure responds tothese motions in parallel to the computer game, either by directlyreceiving the motions or by receiving suitable commands from thecomputer. One or more additional action figures may be controlled by thecomputer to exhibit the actions of other characters in the computergame.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, toy 62 is controlled from aremote location. Preferably, signals to toy 62 are forwarded to theremote location. In one example, a child pretends that toy 60 is talkingto toy 62. The sound made by toy 60 or by the child is transmitted tothe remote location or is naturally audible at the remote location. Thevoice of toy 62 and/or actions thereof may be provided by a parent inanother room or even in another city. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, toy 62 is semi-automatic, so the parent can decide whoresponds to toy 60, the parent or toy 62. Preferably, toy 62 delays itsresponse until it is clear the parent will not respond. Additionally oralternatively, the toy is controlled via a switch on the remote control.Additionally or alternatively to a parent, the toy may be controlledand/or may represent a friend of the child, in a remote location, suchas the friend's house. Preferably, the friend also has a toy whichexhibits the behavior of toy 60. Additionally or alternatively, thefriend can view a simulated behavior of toy 60 on a computer screen.Thus, the two children can play together without leaving home.

FIG. 4B is a schematic illustration of a soldier toy kit comprising twounits of soldiers 70 and 72, each comprising a plurality of soldiers 71and 73, an optional tank 74 and an optional command console 76, inaccordance with a preferred embodiment of the invention.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the soldier toy kit allowsan easy play with a large number of individual toys, for example asshown in FIG. 4B. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each ofthe individual toys responds to actions and/or movements of the othertoys, for example, a toy soldier 73 may repeat any command voiced by anyof the other toy soldiers. Additionally or alternatively, the soldiersin a single unit may advance in a synchronized manner, for example allmoving together or in a staggered manner. In a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, the soldiers are wheeled. Additionally or alternatively,the soldiers move using legs.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, toys from one unit alsorespond to actions/signals from toys in the other unit. In one example,when tank 74 fires at a soldier 71, the soldier responds by falling andshouting out. Preferably, the soldier detects it is in range by thesignal source (such as sound) on tank 74 being directional and soldier71 being in the direction. In another example, when a soldier 73 moves asoldier 71 advances in response. A directional sound wave may begenerated using a suitable wave guide. Additionally or alternatively,two sound sources may be activated in phase, so that they are receivedin phase substantially only along one line emanating form the soundsources. Alternatively or additionally, a relative orientation of asound source may be determined using two microphones on the toy.Additionally or alternatively, the sound may be conducted via a floor,with the microphones being acoustically coupled to the floor.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, console 76 may be used tocommand individual toy soldiers or groups of toys. Additionally oralternatively, only some of the toys are commanded and those toysgenerate and transmit commands for the other toys. Additionally oralternatively to using a console, the control may be by voice commandsof a player. Additionally or alternatively, the console may be used toprovide remote commands, for example from a player in a different house.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the console 76 includes acomputer, for displaying the relative positions of the toys, theirlogic, their mode and/or their responses to a remote player or a localplayer. Additionally or alternatively, console 76 includes a camera forviewing the toys and transmitting their image to the remote location.Additionally or alternatively, console 76 includes a loudspeaker forsounding vocal commands from the remote location.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the toys (e.g., their actionlogic and/or their specificity) may be programmed by computer.Preferably, the programming is downloaded to the toys. Additionally oralternatively, the toys communicate with a computer to perform theirlogic, so at least for some cases/game scenarios only the computer is(re)programmed. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, at the startof the play the computer interrogates all the toys, to determine whichtoys are actually in a playing field.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, spatial angles between asound source and a plurality of microphones are determined by analyzingphase differences at the microphones. Alternatively or additionally,other methods known in the art may be used. In a preferred embodiment ofthe invention, a relative location of a pulsing sound source and aplurality of microphones is determined by solving time of flightequations.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, four microphones are used todetermine a three-dimensional position. For a source at r=(x₀, y₀, z₀)and a plurality “i” of microphones at M_(i)=(x_(i), y_(i), z_(i)), thedistances between the source and the microphones are D_(i)=∥r−M_(i)∥.The acoustic velocity, “c”, may be known, for example based on a knownvelocity in air. Alternatively, it may be determined by measuring thetime of flight between a sound source and a microphone having fixed andknown relative locations. A difference between distances is preferablydefined as dD(i,j)=Di−Dj=c*dt(i,j), where dt(i,j) is defined as adifference between time of arrival at microphone i and time of arrivalat microphone j. For N microphones there are N−1 independent differencesdD. In an optimal configuration, the four microphones located atvertexes of a tetrahedron may be used to determine the location of asource. From practical considerations, such an arrangement may not bepossible. Preferably, more than four microphones are used, so that ahigher resistance to noise and/or a higher localization precision may beachieved. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the threedimensional position is determined by numerically or analyticallysolving three equations of the form:

dD=c*dt(i,j)=∥r−M_(i)∥−∥r−M_(i)∥, where (i,j) is preferably selected tobe (1,2), (2,3) and (3,4). However any other independent three pairs ofmicrophones may be used.

In one preferred embodiment of the invention, a computer loudspeaker,for example as provided with a popular sound card, such as“SoundBlaster” is used to transmit sonic and/or ultrasonic signals to atoy and/or other object. Preferably, a 20 kHz signal is used. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the object receives theultrasound signal and sends it back to a microphone of the computer. Ina preferred embodiment of the invention, the computer analyses the timeof flight and/or other attributes of the transmission and determines adistance from, position to, velocity of motion and/or other spatialattributes of the object.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the object respondsimmediately to the interrogation signal. Alternatively, the objectdelays its response to an interrogation signal, for example for a fewmilliseconds. Alternatively or additionally, the object transmits at adifferent frequency, for example 40 kHz. Alternatively or additionally,the signal transmitted by the object is received by a transducer whichthen transmits the signal to the computer, for example acoustically orusing electromagnetic coupling. Alternatively or additionally, theobject may respond with an identification code. Alternatively oradditionally, the object modulates its transmission with an envelope,which envelope preferable server as an identification code and/or fortransmission of information regarding a status of the object, forexample a position of an arm of a toy. In some cases, the object relaysinformation from a more remote object. In the case of identification,the object may send an ID code even without prompting from the computer,for example periodically or by a user pressing a button on the object.In some cases, the transmitted information is digitally encoded, forexample using FSK encoding. Alternatively, other encoding methods, suchas analog encoding method may be practiced. Alternatively, the signalsmay be un-encoded, for example, the amplitude of the signal or itsfrequency directly representing the information. Various details oftransmission and reception methods are described in U.S. Provisionalpatent application No. 60/122,687, filed Mar. 3, 1999 and titled“Computer Communication”, the disclosure of which is incorporated hereinby reference.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the signal received on thecomputer is used to modify a computer game and/or to generate commandsto other toys, preferably using sounds generated by the computer.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the object amplifies thesignal it receives using a discharge of a coil through a transistor,where the transistor serves as a variable resistor and/or as a wave-formcontroller.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a toy may include aplurality of transmitters and/or receivers (sensors) thereon, controlledby only one circuit. In one example a bendable or deformable toy, suchas a boxing glove or a toy train include one sensor on each segment ofthe toy. Preferably, a multiplexer multiplexes the inputs and/or outputsof these sensors, to reduce the number of channels required of thecircuit. The multiplexing may be a time multiplexing. Alternatively oradditionally, the multiplexing is a frequency multiplexing, possiblyextending to frequency multiplexing in the signals transmitted by acomputer with which the toy communicates. Alternatively or additionally,the multiplexing allows a single acoustic element to be selectively usedas a transmitter or as a receiver.

In some cases, the microphone and/or the sound card are sensitive enoughto receive from the object RF signal associated with generating theacoustic signals, even if an acoustic signal is not sent. Alternativelyor additionally, a toy or other device may receive RF transmitted by acomputer's or other device's loudspeaker. Preferably, frequencies ofabout 20 kHz, 22 kHz and 24 kHz are used, since a standard sound cardhas these sampling rates.

Alternatively or additionally, to using a computer, in a preferredembodiment of the invention, a set-top box is used to transmit and/orreceive signals. Preferably, a microphone is connected to the set-topbox. Alternatively or additionally, the transmission back to the set-topbox uses an IR signal, which is detectable by the set-top box. In oneexample, the set-top box includes software which analyses signals. Suchsignals may comprise responses of objects and/or toys to soundsgenerated by the television or by the set-top box. Alternatively oradditionally, the set-top box adds sounds to a video and/or audio streamdecompressed by the sound box. Alternatively or additionally, theset-top box adds temporal and/or spatial optical modulations to a videostream, for an optically-sensitive toy to detect and/or respond to, forexample by moving or generating a sonic or ultrasonic sound.

The set-top box may be used to receive signals and/or to analyze signalsfor sending to a cable head. Alternatively or additionally, the set-topbox includes software for a considerable portion of a game, for examplescore keeping and/or display update, possibly utilizing a cable head asa storage device and/or as a display-generating slave.

A touch screen in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention utilizes acoustic transmission to detect the location of atouch implement, such as a pen or a toy control, such as a bat. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the position of the pen isdetermined using one or more microphones and/or speakers mounted on thepen, which transmit and/or receive signals from a computer and/or otherspeaker and/or microphone controller. Possibly, a three-dimensionalposition of the touch implement is determined using four acousticelements, such as two microphones and two speakers. It is noted that acomputer typically includes a modem speaker, an internal speaker and/ora keyboard speaker, as well as sound-card speakers.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, location methods utilize acalibration process, in which the located implement is placed at one ormore known location, so that it is possible to correct for the locationof the speaker(s) and the microphone(s)/Alternatively or additionally,the calibration procedure is used to correct for propagation times (ofthe acoustic waves and/or of electronic signals which generate sounds)and/or for reflections, wavelength dependent attenuation and/orbroadband attenuation.

A different type of touch screen in accordance with a preferredembodiment of the invention detects the location of a touch implementbased on the detection and position determination (2D or 3D) of soundsgenerated when the touch implement touches the “touch sensitive”surface.

Another type of touch screen or object position detector in accordancewith a preferred embodiment of the invention, detects the touchimplement based on its occluding beams of ultrasound which crisscrossthe touch screen. This may require more than one speaker and/ormicrophone.

FIG. 5 is a schematic block diagram of a network configuration for toyinterconnection, in which each connecting line indicates a possiblecommunication path, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a toy 80 and atoy 82 can directly communicate. Additionally or alternatively, toy 82and a toy 86 can communicate using an intermediary, for example acomputer 84, to which both can communicate. Additionally oralternatively, toy 80 communicate with toy 86 using toy 82 as anintermediary. Preferably, signals from toy 80 include a designation oftoy 86. Additionally or alternatively, all messages are multi-cast.

Additionally or alternatively, toy 82 communicates with a toy 90 bycomputer networking, such as a LAN or an Internet, by which toy 82communicates with computer 84, which communicates with a computer 88,which communicates with toy 90. Additionally or alternatively, a singletoy 86 may communicate with two computers, 84 and 88, possibletransmitting messages from one to the other, being controlled by one orboth and/or providing status reports to one or both.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the toys communicate viaacoustic waves, audible or inaudible. Additionally or alternatively, thetoys communicate using IR. Additionally or alternatively, the toyscommunicate using RF signals. Additionally or alternatively, the toyscommunicate using low frequency magnetic fields. Additionally oralternatively, the toys communicate by telephone, for example, one ofthe toys being connected to a telephone socket, a cellular phone and/orbeing in communication with a computer which is connected to such atelephone connection. Such a telephone connection may also be used for amodem dial-up connection and/or for an Internet connection. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the toy is controllable by DTMFsounds generated by a telephone keyboard, to simplify communicationhardware.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the signals generated by atoy are inadvertently generated, for example, sounds generated by awheel rotating or an appendage flapping. Additionally or alternatively,the signals are included in a generated action, for example, a quacksounded by a toy, which may be modulated by a signal, a blinking light,whose blinking may be modified by the signal or a waving gesture whichmay be modified and/or its duration or amplitude changed, to convey asignal. Additionally or alternatively, the signals are determined byanalyzing a response, for example differentiating between differentsounds produced by a first toy to decide which sound to make inresponse. Additionally or alternatively, the signal may be additional togenerated actions, for example, an extra beep after a “quack”.Preferably, such additional signals are made as unobtrusive as possible,for example by being ultrasonic.

FIG. 6 is a schematic block diagram of a communications tap 102 for acomputer 100, in accordance with a preferred embodiment of theinvention. One problem with computer communication is setting up thehardware and software for communications. In the configuration of FIG.6, a tap is preferably placed on communication line to an existingperipheral 104. Thus, a user may not be required to even access a backpart of a computer, let alone a computer's inside. A toy 106 preferablysends and/or receives signals from tap 102. Additionally oralternatively, toy 106 may use one tap for receiving and one forsending.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tap is placed on a cableto a printer, a network cable, a camera cable and/or a SCSI connection.Additionally or alternatively, the tap is placed on a serial cable, forexample a mouse cable. Additionally or alternatively, the tap is placedon a modem line, for example on a telephone line or by plugging the tapinto another telephone socket, to be received by the modem. Additionallyor alternatively, the tap is placed on a game controller line.Additionally or alternatively, the tap is placed on a loudspeaker line.Additionally or alternatively, the tap is placed on a microphone line.Additionally or alternatively, the tap is placed on a display cableline.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tap includes anelectro-magnetic coupler, which can induce signals in a cable whichpasses through or near the tap. Additionally or alternatively, the tapcan detect signals in the line and transmit them to toy 106. In apreferred embodiment of the invention, the signals are at a differentcarrier frequency and/or signal frequency than the usual signals passedalong the line. Additionally or alternatively, the signals travel in anopposite direction (input signals on an output line, such as a printeror output signals on an input line, such as a mouse). Additionally oralternatively, the signals encode data which is detected and removedfrom the data stream in the computer. Additionally or alternatively, thesignals are asynchronic on a synchronic line. Additionally oralternatively, the signals are transmitted only when no signal isexpected by the computer and/or the peripheral.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, a piezoelectric actuator(or other vibrating element) is connected to a mouse. The actuatorcauses the mouse to shake at an amplitude of one or two screen pixels(or less) and the shaking is detected by software in the computer assignals from the toy. A return signal may be transmitted to a tapassociated with the actuator, along the serial cable, with the signalpreferably being coded to be recognized by the tap and/or ignored by themouse.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, toy 106 communicates withcomputer 100 using a speaker and a microphone of the computer.Preferably, toy 106 receives transmissions from the computer loudspeakerand/or sends signals to the computer microphone. Additionally oralternatively, signals are transmitted to toy 106 via the microphone andreceived via the loudspeaker, depending on whether the hardware supportssuch a reverse connection.

In an alternative embodiment of the invention, toy 106 sends signals tocomputer 102 using a tap which presses keys on a keyboard attached tocomputer 100. Preferably the key sued is a shift key. Additionally oralternatively, signals from the computer are detected by detectingillumination of LEDs on the keyboard, for example a “Num Lock” LED.

Additionally or alternatively, toy 106 utilizes a transducer which plugsinto a parallel port, a serial port and/or is optically coupled orplaced near an IR port. Preferably, the transducer is a pass throughtransducer, through which a printer and/or other peripherals maycommunicate normally with a computer.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the tap and/or transducercan automatically detect which type of cable is tapped/port is connectedto. Preferably, such detection is by analyzing amplitude, frequencyand/or synchronization of signals passing through the lines.Additionally or alternatively, the computer detects which line istapped, by detecting particular inferences on that line. Alternativelyor additionally, software on the computer sends test signals along thelines, to be detected by the tap.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, suitable software isinstalled on computer 100. Preferably, the software is self installing.Preferably, the computer is not used for any other use while toy 106 iscommunicating with it. Additionally or alternatively, the software candifferentiate between “regular” signals” and signals related to the tap.In one example, a provided keyboard driver may detected special codesand/or data sequences on the keyboard line and remove them from thereceived data, passing only the rest of the received data to anoperating system of computer 100. Additionally or alternatively, aprovided mouse driver may detect spurious and/or small mouse movements,and recognize them as being tap related signals. Additionally oralternatively, a printer driver can recognize data on the cable as notcoming from the printer but from a tap. Additionally or alternatively,data sent to the tap is preferably sent as data which will be rejectedor ignored by the peripheral. Alternatively or additionally, to using atap for communication with a toy, such a tap may be used to attach aperipheral to computer 100.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, such an acoustic or othercommunication may be used to program a toy and/or retrieve informationfrom a toy, for example replacing an RF link as described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,752,880, referenced above. Alternatively or additionally, such alink may be used for real-time communication with the toy.

In another example, an acoustic transmitting card is used to operatearcade games. Such a card may utilize the speaker and/or microphone ofthe game. Alternatively or additionally, the card may includeinformation about the user, for example for billing. Alternatively oradditionally, the information may include gaming information, forexample how far in the game the player is or player level, so the arcadegame can be suitably configured.

Such acoustic communication may also be used to communicate between aplay implement and a computer game, for example between a sword and aplay station. In one example, a light-pen or a light-gun transmits tothe playstation a signal responsive to pixel intensities which aredetected by a photo-detector thereon. Alternatively or additionally, asynchronization signal is transmitted from a computer and/or a set-topbox to the pen, to synchronize the pixel detection with the TV rasterscan. These transmissions may be additional to—or alternativeto—transmission of position and/or orientation. Alternatively oradditionally, the play implement transmits the status of controlsthereon. Alternatively or additionally, the transmission is used totransmit information to be displayed on the implement, for example tolight up lights thereon, display a number of kills thereon and/or drivetext and/or graphics displays thereon.

FIG. 7 is a schematic block diagram of a toy network utilizing a centralbroadcasting station 114, in accordance with a preferred embodiment ofthe invention. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a toy 110 maybe controlled by central broadcasting station 114. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, station 114 is a DAB (Digital AudioBroadcast). Additionally or alternatively, station 114 is a cablebroadcast or and Internet broadcast. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, toy 110 comprises a quiz toy which receives the quizquestions from station 114 and interacts with a player. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, a second toy 112, possibly at a remotelocation is also controlled by the same or related broadcasting station.Thus, toys 110 and 112 may be operated in a synchronous manner, forexample, both asking the same quiz questions or questions selected froma same question set, at the same time. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the toys include a communication feedback to station 114, thefeedback indicated by dotted lines in the figure. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, station 114 receives from the toys anindication of progress of the quiz, a number of correctly answeredquestions, an identification of the toy or its owner and/or otherinformation related to the particular quiz, a history of playing and/orthe player. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, station 114broadcasts to the toys an indication of a winner of the quiz and/orother statistical information relating to the plurality of playerssimultaneously playing the quiz. In one example, the name of the winneris broadcast. In another example, a signal is broadcast so that only thewinner toy will say “I am the winner”.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, each toy comprises areceiver for receiving the DAB broadcast and decoding information storedthereon. Preferably, the feedback is provided by a telephone connectionfrom the toy. Preferably the feedback connection is used only if the toyis the winner or in the case of other infrequent occasions, so as not totie up telephone lines. Additionally or alternatively, the feedback ismeditated by a computer with which the toy communicates.

Additionally or alternatively, in cable broadcasting embodiments, thefeedback connection may be via cable modem. Additionally oralternatively, in Internet broadcasting methods, the feedback may be bye-mail or by TCP/IP.

Various examples of preferred embodiments of the invention will now bedescribed.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a following toy is provided,in which the following toy preferably follows sounds made by a humanwhile the human is walking, for example footstep sounds. Alternatively,the toy follows sounds from a device on the human. Alternatively, thetoy moves away from the human. In a preferred embodiment of theinvention, the sounds are programmed into the toy. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, when a stomping or other programmed soundis detected by the toy, the toy cringes, as if stepped on and/ordisplays other changes in its activity. In one example, the toy has ashape of a spider, with the legs being supported inside the body of thespider using a string. When the spider cringes, the string is releasedand the legs collapse. Alternatively or additionally, to responding tofoot steps, a toy may be programmed to follow and/or respond to clickingat a keyboard, a telephone ringing and/or other sounds. In a preferredembodiment of the invention, the toy is programmed by a user, forexample by subjecting the toy to a sample sound. Thus, such a spider canbe programmed to recognize foot steps of a particular individual.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a hugging follower toy isprovided, for example in the form of a panda. When the panda catches upwith the object it is following, for example a child, but also possiblyanother toy, the panda preferably hugs the object. Preferably, thedistance to the followed objected is determined as described herein.Alternatively, a contact determination is made. Alternatively, thedetermination utilizes a static-electricity charge on the followedobject.

Alternatively or additionally, a following toy may respond differentlyto different sounds, thus appearing to participate in a multi-playergame. In one example, a dog may follow players around and jump up at aball, when the ball hits a floor or is caught.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, fighting action figures areprovided, in which an action figure, for example a “ninja turtle”,responds to actions of a player, for example waving a hand when theplayer waves a hand. Preferably, the figure responds to sounds generatedby sound-makers on various portions of the player's body. Alternativelyor additionally, weapon toys respond to sounds made by the player, forexample, a bow may release an arrow, responsive to a certain sound.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a flipping toy is provided.Preferably, the flipping toy includes two or more sides. When the toy is“startled” with a particular sound, the toy files, to display adifferent side. In one example, one side is a happy animal and the othera snarling animal. In another example, one side is a camouflaged soldierand the other a non-camouflaged solider. Optionally, each sidetransition requires a different startle sound, for example one for thesolider to become camouflaged and one for the solider to show himself.In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the toy flips by suddenlyshifting an internal weight, for example using an electric motor or asolenoid. Alternatively or additionally, to flipping, the toy may changeposition between a small number of fixed positions, for example,standing and sitting.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a moody animal, for examplea dog is provided. When the dog is “hungry” it snarls and/or displaysother attributes of a certain behavior. When toy food is thrown to thedog (identified for example by a sound generated by the food), the dogchanges its mood and/or goes to the food and/or a different location inthe room, for example a food box. In one embodiment, the food comprisesa marble.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a toy animal is controlledusing sounds generated by a telephone. In one example, the telephone isused to call into a computer and the computer detects sounds from thetelephone, for example DTMF sounds. In another example, a computerand/or a toy can respond to DTMF tones generated by a telephone handset,a wireless telephone, a cellular telephone or even a play telephone.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a baby mobile responds tosounds made by a child, for example changing its speed, direction ofmotion, distance of moving elements from a baby and/or other attributesof the mobile. In one example, a mobile comes closer to the baby whenthe baby is quiet and retreats when the baby makes a load noise.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a multi-part toy isprovided, in which the parts attempt to follow each other. In oneexample, the multiple parts comprise portions of a caterpillar, witheach part trying to catch the other parts. Preferably, the parts followeach other in order. In this embodiment, it may be an advantage if theparts cannot follow exactly. Preferably, if a caterpillar part catchesup with another part, the parts connect together at their point ofcontact, possibly disconnecting a short while later. Possibly, thecaterpillar starts moving only upon hearing a certain sound. Possibly,the tracked sounds is generated by a movement rustle and/or by a soundgenerated inadvertently by a motor which generates the motion. Inanother example, a shell of a turtle attempts to catch and/or enclose aturtle (without a shell). In another example animal catchers, possiblywith nets, attempt to close in on an escaping animal. In anotherexample, a plurality of soccer player figurines (or action figures)attempt to catch a ball. Possibly, some or all of the figurines may becontrolled by sounds made by a human player. Alternatively oradditionally, the figurines respond to sounds made by the ball and/orother soccer players.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a plurality of figurines areprovided, each of which responds to a different musical note. Thus, whenmusic is played (recorded or live) the figurines “dance” to the music.As described herein, a complex logic may be defined for sound responsivetoys, for example, the toy may respond differently if it is still inmotion when it hears a same note a second time.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, computer games are providedin which a computer display responds to external sounds.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a bowling game is provided,in which a computer detects sounds generated by a moving bowling balland knocks over pins on a display. Preferably, a soft ball is used.preferably, the motion of the ball is determined relative to thecomputer microphone and/or speakers, as described herein. Alternatively,an independent sound generator and/or receiver may be utilized, whichsound element is preferably integrated with a computer usingminimally-installed hardware, as described herein.

In another example, a computer displays a thrown ball, for example abaseball and determines a “hit” based on detected motion of a baseballbat. In another example, a computer goalie attempts to stop a real ballkicked by a player. The position and/or other motion attributes of theball are preferably determined by acoustic distance determination usingonly the hardware already installed in a standard computer, for exampleas described herein. In another example, a boxing match a computertracks motion of a glove, to detect hits on a computer figure and/or toemulate evasive maneuvers. Alternatively or additionally, the computertracks motion of the player, to aim its own punches and/or to asses ascore. Optionally, the computer is used to display motion of a secondremote player. Alternatively or additionally to boxing, the computer maytrack motion of sources (preferably with implanted sound devices or witha wrist band sound device). Alternatively or additionally, the computermay track positions and/or alignments of toy guns and/or of playersholding the guns. Possibly a map of a room may be provided so thecomputer can determine if a gun has a line of site in the particularroom.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a horse race is provided, inwhich progress in the race is generated responsive to movements of aplayer, sounds generated by spurs and/or sounds generated by a toy horsewhip.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a set of playing blocks isprovided, when a user moves a block, the computer detects the motion andpreferably identifies the block. The computer preferably responds to themotion by stacking and/or un-stacking corresponding virtual blocks on ascreen. In a preferred embodiment of the invention, only a small numberof real blocks are provided. Possibly each time a block is mock stacked,a new virtual block is created and stacked. Possibly, a user may includevoice commands, for example “drop”. Alternatively or additionally, toblocks, other structural elements may be controlled.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a “Simon says” game isprovided. In one example, a computer generates vocal instructions to aplayer and then tracks the players position and/or motion, to determineif the instructions are complied with and/or to score. Possibly, asingle computer can track a plurality of players simultaneously.Alternatively or additionally, the computer may include a figure, forexample a “Barney” figure, which responds to motion of players, forexample as in a “following the leader game”. In a preferred embodimentof the invention, a virtual action figure in a computer game may respondto sounds generated by a user, for example by growing. Possibly, if thefigure grows too much, it pops and shrinks or “dies”.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a computer pet is provided.The pet may be a virtual pet (e.g., software) or a real pet (e.g.,hardware). In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the pet respondsto sounds generated by the computer, for example advancing, retreatingand/or licking the computer. In a preferred embodiment of the invention,the pet can be trained by a user, to respond to certain sounds.Alternatively or additionally, the computer “talks” to the pet,especially when the pet is in the vicinity of the computer and/orresponsive to whether the computer is in use (e.g., being typed on) ornot.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, a computer generated figureresponds to actions of a user. In one example, a stretch figure distortsitself in response to motion and/or sounds made by a user. In oneexample, moving an arm causes the figure to stretch its arm to a greaterlength.

In another example, when a user makes an animal sound, an animal figureappears. Alternatively or additionally, a user can emulate an animal, bythe computer generating scenery appropriate for the animal (e.g.,seascape, land, mountains) and then changing the scenery responsive tomotions of the person (e.g., swimming, walking, wing flapping).Alternatively or additionally, the animal which appears interacts withthe player, for example responding to sounds or movements.

In a preferred embodiment of the invention, the number and/or quality ofsound generating devices and/or sound receiving devices is improved sothat a virtual reality suit is provided. An example of improved qualityis providing narrow bandwidth sound generators and/or transponders.Typically, a high quality is not required for games to be realistic andmay not be economically feasible, however, a high quality may bedesired. Such a suit generally enables a computer to track the motion ofpart or all of a body to a high accuracy and to generate imagery whichincorporates the existence of the suit wearer. Typically, the imagery isdisplayed to the suit wearer. Such a suit preferably also includesfeedback elements, for example piezoelectric vibrators, which providefeedback to a suit's wearer from objects in the virtual world.

In another exemplary embodiment, multi-player and/or board games arefacilitated using methods and devices described above. In the example ofa multi-player game, each player can have a remote unit having a buttonthereon, the remote units can communicate among themselves or with acentral unit or a computer to determine which remote unit had its buttondepressed first. Alternatively or additionally, these remote units canbe used to display information on the unit, for example a question to beasked by the unit holder or multiple-choice answers, one of which is tobe selected by the unit holder. Alternatively or additionally, thecentral unit or computer can display information responsive to signalingby the units. As can be appreciated, using computer-networkingtechniques, some of these units may be quite remote geographically fromthe other ones. Alternatively or additionally, the remote unit may beused to indicate to a user that his turn has come up.

In a board game example, playing pieces may be lit-up or otherwiseactivated from a second unit, for example to indicate a suitable move orto remind a player of his term. Alternatively or additionally, therelative position of the ices and/or the board may be used by acomputer, for example to determine moves and/or administrate a game.

The present invention has been described in terms of preferred,non-limiting embodiments thereof. It should be understood that featuresdescribed with respect to one embodiment may be used with otherembodiments and that not all embodiments of the invention have all ofthe features shown in a particular figure or described with reference toa particular example. In addition, some embodiments may be implementedusing various software and hardware combinations. The scope of theinvention is to be construed to encompass both software and hardwaresuitable for caring out various methods and devices described herein. Inparticular, the scope of the invention is not defined by the preferredembodiments but by the following claims. Section titles, where theyappear are not to be construed in limiting subject matter describedtherein, rather section titles are meant only as an aid in browsing thisspecification. When used in the following claims, the terms “comprises”,“comprising”, “includes”, “including” or the like means “including butnot limited to”.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of operating toys, comprising:generating, during a user-interactive game scenario, a detectableacoustic signal by a source comprising a wearable signal generator,wherein the wearable signal generator is configured to generate thedetectable acoustic signal responsive to a motion of the wearable signalgenerator; detecting the acoustic signal by one of: a toy and acomputer; analyzing the detected acoustic signal by any of the toy andthe computer, wherein said analyzing includes recognizing a particularpattern in the acoustic signal and wherein said analyzing includesdetermining that the recognized particular pattern is associated withone or more of the motion, position, and orientation of the wearablesignal generator; selecting at least one particular response from aplurality of responses based on the determined association of saidrecognized particular pattern with said one or more of the motion,position, and orientation of the wearable signal generator; andperforming the selected at least one particular response by the toy. 2.A method according to claim 1, wherein said analyzing the detectedacoustic signal further includes detecting at least one of acousticsignal amplitude, acoustic signal frequency, time duration of thesignal, frequency spectrum, Doppler shift, change in amplitude, changein duration, and a number of repetitions.
 3. A method according to claim1, wherein the at least one response includes at least one of making asound, moving toward the source, moving in a particular direction,following the source of the signal, moving in a synchronized manner. 4.The method of claim 1 wherein said acoustic signal is an audible signal.5. A method according to claim 1, wherein the computer comprises aremote computer.
 6. A method according to claim 5, wherein saidanalyzing the detected signal is performed by the remote computer whichis in communication with the toy.
 7. A method according to claim 1,wherein the wearable signal generator is a bracelet.